How to Cook White Rice (Step-by-Step Recipe)

White rice is a staple food in many households and cooking it the right way ensures fluffy, non-sticky, and delicious grains every time. Follow this easy recipe to make perfectly cooked white rice.

Photo by Kalyani Akella on Unsplash

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice (long-grain or medium-grain)

• 2 cups water (ratio: 1 cup rice : 2 cups water)

• ½ teaspoon salt (optional)

• 1 teaspoon oil or butter (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

• Place the rice in a bowl.

• Rinse under cold water 2–3 times until the water runs clear.
  (This removes extra starch and prevents stickiness.)

Step 2: Boil the Water

• In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.

• Add salt and oil/butter if using.

Step 3: Add the Rice

• Once the water boils, add the rinsed rice.

• Stir once to prevent clumping.

Step 4: Simmer and Cover

• Reduce the heat to low.

• Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

• Let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 5: Rest the Rice

• Turn off the heat.

• Keep the lid on and let the rice rest for 5 minutes.
  (This helps the grains finish steaming and stay fluffy.)

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

• Use a fork to gently fluff the rice.

• Serve hot with curries, vegetables, or your favorite dish.

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Tips for Perfect White Rice

• Always rinse rice before cooking.
• Keep the lid closed while simmering — don’t stir!
• For softer rice, add ¼ cup extra water.
• For firmer rice, reduce water slightly.

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That’s it! Now you know the easiest way to cook white rice perfectly every time.